Layered braided aneurysm treatment device

ABSTRACT

An implant having two layers of tubular braid is provided that can secure within an aneurysm sac, occlude a majority of the aneurysm&#39;s neck, and at least partially fill the aneurysm sac. The implant can include two layers of tubular braid that can be set into a predetermined shape, compressed for delivery through a microcatheter, and implanted in at least one implanted position. In some examples, the two layers can be implanted in two distinct implanted shapes, allowing for treatment of a wide range of aneurysm sizes. In some examples, the implanted can include a double layer braided compaction resistant column spanning the height of the aneurysm.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/748,877 filed Jan. 22, 2020, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/418,199 filed May 21, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,653,425. The contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety as if set forth herein.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to medical instruments, and more particularly, to embolic implants for aneurysm therapy.

BACKGROUND

Cranial aneurysms can be complicated and difficult to treat due to their proximity to critical brain tissues. Prior solutions have included endovascular treatment whereby an internal volume of the aneurysm sac is removed or excluded from arterial blood pressure and flow. Current alternatives to endovascular or other surgical approaches can include intravascularly delivered treatment devices that fill the sac of the aneurysm with embolic material or block the entrance or neck of the aneurysm. Both approaches attempt to prevent blood flow into the aneurysm. When filling an aneurysm sac, the embolic material clots the blood, creating a thrombotic mass within the aneurysm. When treating the aneurysm neck, blood flow into the entrance of the aneurysm is inhibited, inducing venous stasis in the aneurysm and facilitating a natural formation of a thrombotic mass within the aneurysm.

Current intravascularly delivered devices typically utilize multiple embolic coils to either fill the sac or treat the entrance of the aneurysm. Naturally formed thrombotic masses formed by treating the entrance with embolic coils can result in improved healing compared to aneurysm masses packed with embolic coils because naturally formed thrombotic masses can reduce the likelihood of distention from arterial walls and facilitate reintegration into the original parent vessel shape along the neck plane. However, embolic coils delivered to the neck of the aneurysm can potentially have the adverse effect of impeding the flow of blood in the adjoining blood vessel, particularly if the entrance is overpacked. Conversely, if the entrance is insufficiently packed, blood flow can persist into the aneurysm. Treating certain aneurysm morphology (e.g. wide neck, bifurcation, etc.) can require ancillary devices such a stents or balloons to support the coil mass and obtain the desired packing density. Once implanted, the coils cannot easily be retracted or repositioned. Furthermore, embolic coils do not always effectively treat aneurysms as aneurysms treated with multiple coils often recanalize or compact because of poor coiling, lack of coverage across the aneurysm neck, blood flow, or large aneurysm size.

Alternatives to embolic coils are being explored, for example a tubular braided implant is disclosed in US Patent Publication Number 2018/0242979, incorporated herein by reference. Tubular braided implants have the potential to easily, accurately, and safely treat an aneurysm or other arterio-venous malformation in a parent vessel without blocking flow into perforator vessels communicating with the parent vessel. Compared to embolic coils, however, tubular braided implants are a newer technology, and there is therefore capacity for improved geometries, configurations, delivery systems, etc. for the tubular braided implants. For instance, delivery of tubular braided implants can require unique delivery systems to prevent the braid from inverting or abrading when pushed through a microcatheter, and some simple delivery systems that push embolic coils through microcatheters from their proximal end may not be effective to deliver tubular braids.

There is therefore a need for improved methods, devices, and systems for implants for aneurysm treatment.

SUMMARY

It is an object of the present invention to provide systems, devices, and methods to meet the above-stated needs. Generally, it is an object of the present invention to provide a braided implant that can secure within an aneurysm sac and occlude a majority of the aneurysm's neck. The implant can include a tubular braid that can be set into a predetermined shape, compressed for delivery through a microcatheter, and implanted in at least one implanted position that is based on the predetermined shape and the geometry of the aneurysm in which the braid is implanted. The tubular braid can include a single layer of braided material or two or more layers of braided material constricted together at a pinched end.

In some examples presented herein, when compressed, the implant can be sufficiently short to mitigate friction forces produced when the implant is delivered unsheathed through the microcatheter allowing for a more simplistic delivery system compared to some other known braided embolic implant delivery systems.

In some examples presented herein, when the implant is implanted, a majority of the aneurysm sac can be free from embolic material to facilitate the formation of a thrombotic mass that is primarily naturally formed. Percentage of volume of the aneurysm sac filled with embolic material can be controlled by adding more layers of braided material that are constricted together at the pinched end. Additional layers of braided material can also serve to provide a denser barrier to occlude blood flow into the aneurysm neck.

In some examples presented herein, the tubular braid can be implanted in two distinct implanted shapes, depending on the size of the aneurysm, allowing for treatment of a wider range of aneurysm sizes compared to some other known braided embolic implants.

In some examples presented herein, when implanted, the tubular braid can have a compaction resistant column extending across a majority of the height of the aneurysm and positioned centrally within the aneurysm sac.

An example implant can include two layers (layer A and layer B) of tubular braid constricted together at a pinched end. The two layers can each have a predetermined shape in which each of the two layers respectively has a first and second inversion and a first, second, and third segment. The third segment extends from the pinched end to the second inversion. The second segment extends from the second inversion to the first inversion and at least partially surrounds the third segment. The first segment extends from the first inversion and at least partially surrounds the second segment.

For each of the two layers, the first segment can only partially surround the second segment.

One of the two braid layers can lack any radiopaque wire. The other of the two braid layers can include a radiopaque wire.

The two layers of tubular braid can be stable in a first implanted shape based on the predetermined shape when constrained by a first substantially spherical cavity. The two layers of tubular braid can be stable in a second implanted shape based on the predetermined shape when constrained by a second substantially spherical cavity. In each of the first implanted shape and the second implanted shape, each of the two layers can include an outer layer corresponding to the first segment of the predetermined shape and a proximal inversion corresponding to the first inversion of the predetermined shape.

In the first implanted shape, the outer layer of layer A can be positioned to contact a cavity wall of the first substantially spherical cavity, the outer layer of layer B apposes the outer layer of layer A, and the proximal inversion of each of the two layers can be positioned to be placed approximate an entrance to the first substantially spherical cavity. In the first implanted shape, each of the two layers of tubular braid can include a sack corresponding to the second segment of the predetermined shape. The sack of layer B can be positioned to appose a portion of a cavity wall of the first substantially spherical cavity and the sack of layer A can be contained within the sack of layer B.

In the second implanted shape, the outer layer of layer A can be positioned to contact a cavity wall of the second substantially spherical cavity, the outer layer of layer B can be positioned to appose the outer layer of layer A, and the proximal inversion of each of the two layers can be positioned to be placed approximate an entrance to the second substantially spherical cavity. In the second implanted shape, each of the two layers of tubular braid can include a middle layer and inner layer corresponding to the second segment of the predetermined shape and a fold separating the middle and inner layer such that the inner layer of layer B apposes the inner layer of layer A which apposes the middle layer of layer A which apposes the middle layer of layer B which apposes the outer layer of layer B.

In the predetermined shape, each of the two layers of tubular braid can include a bend positioned in the second segment. In the second implanted shape, for each of the two layers, the fold separating the middle layer and the inner layer corresponds to the bend in the second segment of the predetermined shape.

In the first implanted shape, the pinched end can be suspended within the sacks of layer A and layer B. In the second implanted shape, the pinched end can be encircled by the proximal inversions of layer A and layer B.

In the first implanted shape, the two layers can form an open end that encircles the sack. In the second implanted shape, the open end can encircle the fold.

The implant can be configured to treat a first aneurysm can include a first diameter measuring about 4 mm and a first height measuring about 6 mm, a second aneurysm can include a second diameter measuring about 5 mm and a second height measuring about 8 mm, and a third aneurysm can include a third diameter measuring about 6 mm and a third height measuring about 6 mm.

The implant can be configured to treat a plurality of aneurysms within a continuum of aneurysm sizes, the continuum bounded by and including diameters between about 4 mm and about 5 mm and heights between about 6 mm and about 8 mm.

As an alternative to being implanted two implanted shapes, the two layers of tubular braid can be stable in an implanted shape based on the predetermined shape when constrained by a substantially spherical cavity. In the implanted shape, layer A can include an outer layer apposed to a cavity wall of the substantially spherical cavity, layer B can include and outer layer apposed to the outer layer of layer A, layer B can include an inner sack apposed to the outer layer of layer B, and layer A can include an inner sack positioned within the inner sack of layer B. Further, for each of the two layers, a proximal inversion corresponding to the first inversion can be positioned approximate an entrance to the substantially spherical cavity, and a distal inversion corresponding to the second inversion can be positioned approximate a distal portion of the cavity wall. Further, each of the two layers can include a post corresponding to the third segment such that the posts extend centrally within the respective inner sacks and along a majority of a length between the distal inversion and the proximal inversion. The post of layer B can be positioned within the post of layer A.

An example method for treating an aneurysm can include one or more of the following steps implemented in a variety of orders and can include additional steps as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art according to the teachings of the present disclosure. A distal end of a catheter can be positioned approximate an aneurysm neck of an aneurysm. A pinched end of an implant comprising two layers (a layer A and a layer B) of tubular braid can be pushed distally through at least a portion of the catheter. An outer layer of layer A can appose to the aneurysm wall. An outer layer of layer B can appose to the outer layer of layer A. A sack can be formed of layer B, such that the sack is at least partially surrounded by the outer layers of layer A and layer B. A sack can be formed of layer A such that the sack is at least partially surrounded by the outer layers of layer A and layer B and is contained within the sack of layer B. The implant can be positioned within the aneurysm solely via manipulation of the pinched end and via positioning of the distal end of the catheter.

Each of the two layers can be extended to respectively form a single layer tubular shape such that layer A is surrounded by layer B. The two layers can be collapsed to have an outer circumference that is smaller than the outer circumference of a completely collapsed single layer tubular braid having a wire count equal to the sum of the wire count of the two layers and a wire circumference about equal to the average wire circumference of the wires in the two layers.

The outer layer A can press to the aneurysm wall with a radial force that is greater than a radial force applied by a single layer braid to an aneurysm wall of a second aneurysm having a substantially identical size to the aneurysm, the two layers having a total wire count that is about equal to the wire count of the single layer braid, an average wire circumference about equal to the average wire circumference of the single layer braid, and a predetermined shape formed by a substantially identical process as the single layer braid.

The implant can be implanted such that, compared to a similarly implanted single layer braid, across the aneurysm neck the two layers of braid have a smaller inlet channel, a decreased porosity, and/or an increased metal coverage. In this step, the two layers have a total wire count that is about equal to the wire count of the single layer braid, an average wire circumference about equal to the average wire circumference of the single layer braid, and a predetermined shape formed by a substantially identical process as the single layer braid. Also, in this step, the single layer braid is implanted in an aneurysm having a substantially identical size as the aneurysm in which the two-layer implant is implanted.

The sacks of each of the two layers can be collapsed to form an inner layer and a middle layer separated by a fold in each of the two layers such that that the inner layer of layer B apposes the inner layer of layer A which apposes the middle layer of layer A which apposes the middle layer of layer B which apposes the outer layer of layer B. The pinched end can be positioned approximate the aneurysm neck. The pinched end can be disengaged while the pinched end is positioned approximate the aneurysm neck and the sacks of each of the two layers are collapsed. Alternatively, the pinched end can be disengaged while two layers each retain their respective sacks.

When the sacks of each of the two layers are collapsible to form the inner layer and the middle layer, the method can further include determining the implant is suitable for treating a first aneurysm comprising a first diameter measuring about 4 mm and a first height measuring about 6 mm, a second aneurysm comprising a second diameter measuring about 5 mm and a second height measuring about 8 mm, and a third aneurysm comprising a third diameter measuring about 6 mm and a third height measuring about 6 mm. Additionally, or alternatively, the method can further include determining the implant is suitable for treating a continuum of aneurysm sizes, the continuum bounded by and including diameters between about 4 mm and about 5 mm and heights between about 6 mm and about 8 mm.

As an alternative to collapsing the sacks of each of the two layers, a tubular segment of layer A can be extended within the sack of layer A and the sack of layer B to terminate at the pinched end. A tubular segment of layer B can be extended within the tubular segment of layer A to terminate at the pinched end. The pinched end can be positioned approximate the aneurysm neck. The pinched end can be disengaged while the pinched end is positioned approximate the aneurysm neck and the tubular segments extend within the respective sacks.

An example method for forming an implant can include one or more of the following steps implemented in a variety of orders and can include additional steps as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art according to the teachings of the present disclosure. Two layers of tubular braid (a layer A and a layer B) constricted at a pinched end can be shaped to a predetermined shape. Forming the predetermined shape can include inverting each of the two layers of tubular braid to form a respective distal inversion and inverting each of the two layers of tubular braid to form a respective proximal inversion, each respective distal inversion separating an inner segment and a middle segment of each of the two layers, the inner segment of each of the two layers extending from the respective distal inversion to the pinched end and at least partially surrounded by the middle segment, each respective proximal inversion separating the middle segment from an outer segment of each of the two layers, and each respective middle segment extending from the first inversion to the second inversion and at least partially surrounded by the outer segment.

The implant can be determined to be suitable for treating a first aneurysm comprising a first diameter measuring about 4 mm and a first height measuring about 6 mm, a second aneurysm comprising a second diameter measuring about 5 mm and a second height measuring about 8 mm, and a third aneurysm comprising a third diameter measuring about 6 mm and a third height measuring about 6 mm.

The implant can be determined to be suitable for treating a continuum of aneurysm sizes, the continuum bounded by and including diameters between about 4 mm and about 5 mm and heights between about 6 mm and about 8 mm.

An example implant can include a tubular braid having an open end and a pinched end. The tubular braid can have a predetermined shape that has two inversions that divide the braid into three segments. In the predetermined shape, the braid can have an outer segment that extends between the open end and a first of the two inversions, a middle segment that extends between the two inversions and is encircled by the open end, and an inner segment that extends between the second of the two inversions and the pinched end of the tubular braid and is surrounded by the middle segment.

When in the predetermined shape, the tubular braid can have a height measured between the two inversions and a substantially radially symmetrical shape having an outermost diameter. The ratio of outermost diameter to height can be between about 2:1 and about 1:3 or, more specifically, between about 2:1 and about 1:1. In the predetermined shape the middle segment can have maximum diameter that is equal to the diameter of the open end. When compressed, the tubular braid can be extended longitudinally to a single layer of braid having a length measured from the open end to the pinched end. The ratio of the outermost diameter in the predetermined shape to length in the compressed, delivery shape can be between about 0.2 and about 0.3.

The length of the tubular braid in the delivery shape can be between about 10 mm an about 40 mm, depending on the size of the aneurysm being treated.

A collection of implants, each having a uniquely shaped tubular braid can be created to provide a catalogue of implants for treating aneurysms ranging in diameter and height. Each implant in the collection can be suitable for treating aneurysms with a sub-range of diameters and a sub range of heights.

The tubular braid can have two distinct implanted shapes based on the predetermined shape and constrained by the geometry of an aneurysm in which the tubular braid is implanted. In other words, the implant can be implanted in either a larger aneurysm or a smaller aneurysm, the smaller aneurysm having a height measuring less than the height of the larger aneurysm, and the tubular braid can take one of the two implanted shapes when implanted in the larger aneurysm and the tubular braid can take on the other of the implanted shapes when implanted in the smaller aneurysm. In either implanted shape, the first, outer segment of the predetermined shape can be positioned to form an outer layer that juxtaposes/apposes an aneurysm wall and the inversion adjacent to the outer segment in the predetermined shape can be positioned to form a proximal inversion at an aneurysm neck. When implanted in the larger aneurysm, the second, middle segment of the predetermined shape can form a sack that apposes a portion of the aneurysm wall and apposes the outer layer of the braid, the pinched end can be suspended within the sack of the braid, and the open end can encircle the sack. When implanted in the smaller aneurysm, the middle segment of the predetermined shape can be folded to form a middle layer that apposes the outer layer and an inner layer that apposes the middle layer, the open end can be positioned near the fold dividing the middle and inner layers, and the pinched end can be positioned near the proximal inversion and aneurysm neck. The tubular braid in the predetermined shape can have a bend in the middle, second segment, and when tubular braid is in the smaller aneurysm implanted shape, the middle segment can fold at the bend to separate the middle layer from the inner layer.

An example implant having the tubular braid having two distinct implanted shapes can treat aneurysms within a range of sizes including an aneurysm having a diameter of 4 mm and a height of 6 mm, an aneurysm having a diameter of 5 mm and a height of 8 mm, and an aneurysm having a diameter of 6 mm and a height of 6 mm. Additionally, or alternatively, the implant can be suitable for treating aneurysms within a continuum of aneurysm sizes, the continuum bounded by and including aneurysm diameters between 4 mm and 5 mm and heights between 6 mm and 8 mm. The implant capable of treating aneurysms having the aforementioned sizes, when compressed for delivery through a microcatheter can have a length measuring between about 22 mm and about 25 mm.

As an alternative to having two distinct implanted shapes, the implant can have an implanted shape that includes a compaction resistant post extending within an inner sack of the braid and extending between a proximal inversion near an aneurysm neck and a distal inversion near a distal portion of an aneurysm wall. In the implanted shape, the tubular braid can have an outer layer that corresponds to the outer segment in the predetermined shape, the inner sack in the implanted shape can correspond to the middle segment in the predetermined shape, the compaction resistant post can correspond to the inner, third segment in the predetermined shape, and the distal and proximal inversions can correspond to the two inversions in the predetermined shape. The compaction resistant post can serve to inhibit the implant from impacting when implanted in the aneurysm.

An example method of treating an aneurysm can include one or more of the following steps presented in no particular order, and the method can include additional steps not included here. A tubular braid having an open end and a pinched end can be selected and shaped to a predetermined shape. The predetermined shape can be formed by inverting the braid to form a distal inversion, moving the open end over some or all of the braid to form a proximal inversion, shaping a first segment that extends between the open end and the proximal inversion, shaping a second segment that extends between the two inversions, positioning the open end to encircle the second segment, shaping a third segment that extends between the distal inversion and the pinched end of the braid, and positioning the second segment to surround the third segment. Forming the predetermined shape can further include shaping the open end and second segment so that the open end has a diameter greater than or equal to the maximum diameter of the second segment.

The tubular braid can be formed in the predetermined shape such that the tubular braid is implantable in two distinct implanted shapes and in either of two aneurysms having differing heights such that the braid takes on one implanted shape in the taller aneurysm and the second, different implanted shape in the shorter aneurysm. The example method can further include reshaping the tubular braid into one of the two distinct implanted shapes. When the tubular braid is reshaped for the taller aneurysm, the first segment can be reshaped to form an outer braid layer that apposes an aneurysm wall of the taller aneurysm, the proximal inversion can be positioned at the neck of the taller aneurysm, and the second segment can be reshaped to form a sack that nests within the outer layer and also apposes the aneurysm wall of the taller aneurysm. When the tubular braid is reshaped for the shorter aneurysm, the first segment can be reshaped to form an outer braid layer that apposes an aneurysm wall of the shorter aneurysm, the proximal inversion can be positioned at the neck of the shorter aneurysm, and the second segment can be folded to form a middle braid layer that apposes the outer layer and an inner braid layer that apposes the middle layer.

Forming the predetermined shape can further include forming a bend in the second segment, and when the tubular braid is reshaped for the shorter aneurysm, the second segment can be folded at the bend to form the fold that separates the middle braid layer and the inner braid layer.

When the tubular braid is reshaped for the taller aneurysm, the pinched end can be suspended within the sack. When the tubular braid is reshaped for the smaller aneurysm, the pinched end can be positioned near the proximal inversion.

When the tubular braid is reshaped for the taller aneurysm, the open end can encircle the sack. When the tubular braid is reshaped for the shorter aneurysm, the open end can be positioned near the fold separating the middle braid layer and the inner braid layer.

The method can further include shaping the tubular braid into a delivery shape to be delivered through a microcatheter. The tubular braid can have a length in the delivery shape that is measured between the open end and the pinched end. When the tubular braid is shaped to the predetermined shape, it can be shaped to have an outermost diameter. The length of the tubular braid in the delivery shape can measure between 3.5 and 5 times that of the outermost diameter of the tubular braid in the predetermined shape.

In the predetermined shape, the outermost diameter can be shaped to be between 2 and ⅓ times the height of the tubular braid.

When the tubular braid is shaped to the predetermined shape, the tubular braid can be shaped to be suitable to be implanted in an aneurysm having a diameter of 4 mm and a height of 6 mm, an aneurysm having a diameter of 5 mm and a height of 8 mm, and an aneurysm having a diameter of 6 mm and a height of 6 mm. Additionally, or alternatively, when the tubular braid is shaped to the predetermined shape, the tubular braid can be shaped to be suitable for treating a continuum of aneurysm sizes including aneurysms having diameters between 4 mm and 5 mm and heights between 6 mm and 8 mm. The tubular braid that is suitable for treating aneurysms sized as above can be extended to a single layer delivery shape having a length measuring between about 22 mm and about 25 mm, the delivery shape sized to be delivered through a microcatheter.

The method can further include positioning the proximal inversion on a proximal side of a plane defining a boundary between an aneurysm and blood vessel branches. The first segment can be reshaped to appose an aneurysm wall and the second segment can be reshaped to provide an outwardly radial force in the plane. The force can be sufficient to appose the first segment to the aneurysm neck. The force can also be sufficient to resist compaction of the implant within the aneurysm.

The method can further include collapsing the implant to fit within a microcatheter and pushing the pinched end of the unsheathed tubular braid through a majority of the length of the microcatheter to an aneurysm within a patient.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and further aspects of this invention are further discussed with reference to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like numerals indicate like structural elements and features in various figures. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating principles of the invention. The figures depict one or more implementations of the inventive devices, by way of example only, not by way of limitation.

FIG. 1A is an illustration of an example implant having a tubular braid in a predetermined shape according to aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 1B is an illustration of the example implant with the tubular braid in a first implanted shape according to aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 1C is an illustration of the example implant with the tubular braid in a second implanted shape according to aspects of the present invention;

FIGS. 2A through 2H are illustrations of an implant having a tubular braid that expands to a predetermined shape similar to as illustrated in FIG. 1A as the tubular braid exits a microcatheter according to aspects of the present invention;

FIGS. 3A through 3H are illustrations of the implant showing the tubular braid expanding to a first implanted shape and a second implanted shape within an aneurysm according to aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 4A is an illustration of the implant showing the tubular braid expanded in the first implanted shape in a tube having a 5 mm diameter according to aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 4B is an illustration of the implant showing the tubular braid expanded in the second implanted shape in a tube having a 4 mm diameter according to aspects of the present invention;

FIGS. 5A through 5D are illustrations of the example implant as illustrated in FIGS. 1A through 1C implanted in either the first implanted shape or the second implanted shape in aneurysms ranging in size according to aspects of the present invention;

FIGS. 6A and 6B are illustrations of measurements of an example implant and an aneurysm according to aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 7A is an illustration of an example implant having a tubular braid in an alternative predetermined shape according to aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 7B is an illustration of the example implant illustrated in FIG. 7A with the tubular braid in an implanted shape according to aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 8A is an illustration of an example implant having a tubular braid in another alternative predetermined shape according to aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 8B is an illustration of the example implant illustrated in FIG. 8A with the tubular braid in an implanted shape according to aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 9A is an illustration of an example implant having a tubular braid in another alternative predetermined shape according to aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 9B is an illustration of the example implant illustrated in FIG. 9A with the tubular braid in an implanted shape according to aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is an illustration of an implant having a tubular braid in a predetermined shape similar to as illustrated in FIG. 9A according to aspects of the present invention;

FIGS. 11A through 11E are illustrations of the implant illustrated in FIG. 10 showing the tubular braid expanding to the implanted shape similar to as illustrated in FIG. 9B according to aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 12A is an illustration of an example implant having two layers of tubular braid in a predetermined shape according to aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 12B is an illustration of the example implant of FIG. 12A in a catheter for delivery according to aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 12C is an illustration of the example implant of FIGS. 12A and 12B with the two layers of tubular braid in a first implanted shape according to aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 12D is an illustration of the example implant of FIGS. 12A through 12C with the two layers of tubular braid in a second implanted shape according to aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is an illustration of an example implant having two layers of tubular braid in a predetermined shape similar to that of FIG. 12A and having an alternative braid configuration according to aspects of the present invention; and

FIG. 14 is an illustration of an example implant having two layers of tubular braid in an alternative predetermined shape according to aspects of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Examples presented herein generally include a braided implant that can secure within an aneurysm sac and occlude a majority of the aneurysm's neck. The implant can include a tubular braid that can be set into a predetermined shape, compressed for delivery through a microcatheter, and implanted in at least one implanted position that is based on the predetermined shape and the geometry of the aneurysm in which the braid is implanted. When compressed, the implant can be sufficiently short to mitigate friction forces produced when the implant is delivered unsheathed through the microcatheter allowing for a more simplistic delivery system compared to some other known braided embolic implant delivery systems

FIGS. 1A through 1C are illustrations of an example braided implant 100 that can have a predetermined shape as illustrated in FIG. 1A and two distinct implanted shapes as illustrated in FIGS. 1B and 1C. The implant 100 can treat a range of aneurysm sizes including a larger aneurysm 10 a as illustrated in FIG. 1B and a smaller aneurysm 10 b as illustrated in FIG. 1C. The implant 100 can have a first implanted shape (FIG. 1B) that can be conducive for treating larger aneurysms 10 a and a second implanted shape (FIG. 1C) that can be conducive for treating smaller aneurysms 10 b. The implant 100 can include a tubular braid 110 having an open end 114 and a pinched end 112. The implant 100 can include a detachment feature 150 attached to the braid 110 at the pinched end 112. The tubular braid 110 can be formed in the predetermined shape (FIG. 1A), collapsed for delivery through a microcatheter, attached to a delivery system at the detachment feature 150, and implanted in a shape similar to one or the other of the two implanted shapes (FIG. 1B or FIG. 1C).

Referring to FIG. 1A, when in the predetermined shape, the tubular braid 110 can include two inversions 122, 124, dividing the braid 110 into three segments 142, 144, 146. In the predetermined shape, the braid 110 can have an outer segment 142 extending from the open end 114 of the braid 110 to one of the inversions 122, an inner segment 146 extending from the pinched end 112 of the braid 110 to the other of the inversions 124, and a middle segment 144 extending between the two inversions 122, 124. When in the predetermined shape, the tubular braid 110 can be substantially radially symmetrical about a central vertical axis y (see FIG. 6A). FIG. 1A illustrates a profile of each segment 142, 144, 146, and the detachment feature 150 is illustrated as a flat key that can be used with a mechanical implant delivery system (not illustrated).

The tubular braid 110 can be formed into the predetermined shape by first inverting the braid outwardly to separate the inner segment 146 from the middle segment 144 with an inversion 124, then the middle segment 144 can be shaped over a form to produce the substantially “S” shaped profile illustrated, and finally, the braid 110 can be inverted outwardly again to separate the middle segment 144 from the outer segment 142 with another inversion 122. If necessary, the braid can be trimmed at the open end 114. The open end 114 can be positioned to encircle the middle segment 144. The open end 114 can positioned within the middle third section of the braid's height as illustrated.

It can be advantageous to minimize a neck opening 126 defined by the lower extension of the “S” shape of the middle segment 144 to maximize occlusion of an aneurysm neck when the implant 100 is implanted. The middle segment 144 can have one or more bends 132, 134. The bends 132, 134 can be positioned facilitate the movement of the braid 110 into the second implanted shape illustrated in FIG. 1C and the bends 132, 134 can be positioned to stabilize the braid 110 in the first and/or second implanted shape.

The tubular braid 110 can include memory shape material that can be heat set to a predetermined shape, can be deformed for delivery through a catheter, and can self-expand to an implanted shape that is based on the predetermined shape and confined by the anatomy of the aneurysm in which it is implanted.

As illustrated in FIG. 1B, when in the first implanted shape, the braid 110 can have an outer layer 142 a contacting the aneurysm's wall 14 a, a sack 144 a nested within the outer layer 142 a, a proximal inversion 122 a positioned at the aneurysm's neck 16 a, and a distal inversion 124 a positioned near a distal portion 15 a of the aneurysm wall 14 a. In the first implanted shape, the detachment feature 150 and pinched end 112 of the braid 110 can be suspended within the sack 144 a.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the tubular braid 110 in the first implanted shape can be radially compressed and vertically extended compared to the predetermined shape. The outer layer 142 a in the first implanted shape can correspond to the outer layer 142 in the predetermined shape, the proximal inversion 122 a in the first implanted shape can correspond to the inversion 122 adjacent to the outer layer 142 in the predetermined shape, the sack 144 a in the first implanted shape can correspond to the middle segment 144 in the predetermined shape, the distal inversion 124 a in the first implanted shape can correspond to the inversion 124 adjacent to the inner segment 146 in the predetermined shape, and an inner braid segment 146 a suspending the detachment feature 150 in the first implanted shape can correspond to the inner segment 146 in the predetermined shape. In the first implanted shape, the sack 144 a can have a neck opening 126 a corresponding to the neck opening 126 in the predetermined shape.

As illustrated in FIG. 1C, when in the second implanted shape, the braid 110 can have an outer layer 142 b contacting the aneurysm's wall 14 b, a proximal inversion 122 b positioned at the aneurysm's neck 16 b, a middle layer 144 b extending within the outer layer 142 b and pressing against the outer layer 142 b, a distal inversion 124 b positioned near the open end 114 of the braid 110, and an inner layer 146 b extending within the middle layer 144 b and pressing against the middle layer 144 b. In the second implanted shape, the detachment feature 150 and pinched end 112 of the braid 110 can be positioned at the aneurysm neck 16 b, near the proximal inversion 122 b.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1C, the tubular braid 110 in the second implanted shape can be radially compressed compared to the predetermined shape, and the middle segment 144 of the predetermined shape can be folded so that the height of the tubular braid 110 is compressed in the second implanted shape compared to the predetermined shape.

Alternatively, when implanted in the second implanted shape in aneurysms having a diameter that is significantly smaller than the aneurysm's height, the second implanted shape can be radially compressed compared to the predetermined shape and the height of the braid in the second implanted shape can be greater than the height of the braid in the predetermined shape.

The outer layer 142 b in the second implanted shape can correspond to the outer layer 142 in the predetermined shape, the proximal inversion 122 b in the second implanted shape can correspond to the inversion 122 adjacent to the outer layer 142 in the predetermined shape, the middle layer 144 b and inner layer 146 b in the second implanted shape can correspond to the middle segment 144 in the predetermined shape, the distal inversion 124 b in the second implanted shape can correspond to a bend 134 in the middle segment 144 in the predetermined shape, and a portion of the braid 110 near the detachment feature 150 forming the inner layer 146 b in the second implanted shape can correspond to the inner segment 146 in the predetermined shape.

FIGS. 2A through 2H are illustrations of an example implant 100 having a braid 110 expanding to a predetermined shape as the braid 110 exits a microcatheter 600. The implant 100 has a predetermined shape similar to as illustrated in FIG. 1A. As illustrated in FIG. 2A, the braid 110 can be shaped to a delivery shape that is extended to a single layer of tubular braid having a compressed circumference/diameter sized to be delivered through the microcatheter 600 and a length L. The illustrated implant 100 has a length L of between about 22 mm and about 25 mm. As will be appreciated and understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art, the length L of a specific braid 110 can be tailored based on the size and shape of the aneurysm being treated.

During delivery through the microcatheter 600, the detachment feature 150 can be attached to a delivery system at a proximal end of the implant 100, the pinched end 112 can be positioned near the proximal end of the implant 100, and the open end 114 can define the distal end of the implant 100. Collapsing the braid 110 to a single layer tube can result in a braid 110 that has a sufficiently small diameter and a sufficiently short length L to mitigate effects of friction force on the braid 110 when it is delivered through the microcatheter, allowing the braid 110 to be delivered unsheathed in some applications.

As illustrated in FIG. 2B, the open end 114 can be positioned to exit the microcatheter 600 before any other portion of the braid 110 exits the microcatheter. The open end 114 can expand as it exits the microcatheter 600. If the open end 114 is unconstrained by an aneurysm as illustrated, the open end can expand to its circumference in the predetermined shape.

As illustrated in FIG. 2C, the distal portion of the braid 110 can continue to expand radially as it exits the microcatheter 600.

As illustrated in FIG. 2D, the braid 110 can form the inversion 122 defining the outer segment 142 as the braid 110 is further pushed out of the microcatheter 600.

As illustrated in FIGS. 2E through 2G, the “S” shape of the middle segment 144 can begin to form as the braid 110 is further pushed from the microcatheter 600.

As illustrated in FIG. 2H, when all, or nearly all of the braid 110 exits the microcatheter 600, the braid 110, not confined by an aneurysm, can expand to a predetermined shape similar to the shape illustrated in FIG. 1A. In the predetermined shape, the braid 110 of the illustrated implant has a diameter between about 6 mm and about 6.5 mm and a height between about 5 mm and about 5.5 mm.

The ratio of the outermost diameter of the braid 110 in the predetermined shape illustrated in FIG. 2H to the length of the braid 110 in the delivery shape illustrated in FIG. 2A is between about 0.3 and about 0.24.

FIGS. 3A through 3H are illustrations of the implant 100 illustrated in FIGS. 2A through 2H expanding within an aneurysm 10 in two different implanted shapes. The aneurysm 10 has a height of about 6 mm, a diameter of about 6 mm, and a neck diameter of about 4 mm. Comparing the dimensions of the aneurysm 10 to the braid 110 in the predetermined shape illustrated in FIG. 2H, the braid 110 has a slightly larger diameter and a slightly smaller height, and the interior of the aneurysm 10 is substantially spherical while the outer dimensions of the braid 110 are more cylindrical (see FIGS. 6A and 6B for measurement orientation). When the braid 110 of the implant 100 is confined by the aneurysm 10, the braid 110 is therefore be radially constrained.

As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the implant 100 can be delivered to the aneurysm 10 through the microcatheter 600, as described in relation to FIG. 2A. The open end 114 of the tubular braid 110 can expand within the aneurysm 10 as it exits the microcatheter 600. The illustrated aneurysm 10 is positioned at a bifurcation including a stem blood vessel 20 and two branch vessels 22 a, 22 b, and the microcatheter 600 is illustrated being delivered through the stem blood vessel 20. It is contemplated that the implant could be delivered to an aneurysm on a sidewall of a blood vessel through a curved microcatheter, and such a procedure is intended to be embraced by the scope of the present disclosure.

As illustrated in FIG. 3B, as the braid 110 is further pushed distally from the microcatheter 600, the braid 110 can expand to appose the aneurysm wall 14 and conform to the aneurysm neck 16. The aneurysm 10 being treated can have a diameter that is less than the outer diameter of the tubular braid 110 in the predetermined shape so that the braid 110 tends to expand outwardly, providing a force against the aneurysm wall 14, and sealing around the perimeter of the aneurysm neck 16. The implant 100 can be particularly suitable for treating a wide neck aneurysm such as commonly occur at bifurcations because the radial force provided by the braid 110 against the aneurysm wall 14 and perimeter of the neck 16 can be sufficient to both anchor the implant 100 in a wide neck aneurysm and seal the neck 16 of the aneurysm 10.

As illustrated in FIG. 3C, as the braid 110 is further pushed distally from the microcatheter 600, the proximal inversion 122 a can be formed.

As illustrated in FIG. 3D, the microcatheter 600 can be manipulated to place the proximal inversion 122 a at the aneurysm neck 16. The proximal inversion 122 a can be placed on a proximal side of a plane defining a boundary 18 (See FIG. 6B) between the aneurysm 10 and the branch vessels 22 a, 22 b. In some applications it can be advantageous to place the proximal inversion 122 a far enough in the proximal direction from the plane 18 so that the outer layer 142 a of the braid 110 seals around the outer perimeter of the aneurysm neck 16, but not so far proximally that the implant 100 becomes an obstruction to the blood vessels 22 a, 22 b, 20.

As illustrated in FIG. 3E, the braid 110 can expand within the aneurysm sac 12 and extend to appose an inner surface of the outer layer 142 a of the braid 110. The apposition to the outer layer 142 a can provide additional force to anchor the outer layer 142 a to the aneurysm wall 14.

As illustrated in FIG. 3F, the aneurysm 10 has a height that can accommodate the tubular braid 110 in the first implanted shape similar to that illustrated in FIG. 1B. Because the braid 110 is radially constrained and has a more cylindrical shape compared to the substantially spherical shape of the aneurysm, the braid 110 can extend beyond the height of the predetermined shape to accommodate aneurysms taller than the predetermined shape. In the illustration, the tubular braid 110 of the implant 100 in the predetermined shape has a height between about 0.5 mm and 1 mm less than the height of the aneurysm, or in other words, the implant has extended between about 10% and about 20% in height in the first implanted shape compared to the predetermined shape.

The braid can be pulled proximally as illustrated in FIG. 3G to form a second implanted shape as illustrated in FIG. 3H that is similar to the second implanted shape illustrated in FIG. 1C, but different in that the aneurysm 10 b illustrated in FIG. 1C is smaller (proportionally compared to the braid 110) than the mock aneurysm 10 illustrated in FIG. 3H. Before the implant 100 is released from the delivery system, the implant 100 can be partially or fully retracted into the microcatheter 600 and repositioned in either of the first implanted shape or the second implanted shape. Additionally, or alternatively, the microcatheter 600 can be moved distally to move the braid 110 from the second implanted shape illustrated in FIG. 3H to the first implanted shape illustrated in FIG. 3F. In some applications, while positioning the implant 100, a physician can choose whether the first implanted shape or the second implanted shape is more suitable for the anatomy of the aneurysm and treatment site. For treatments involving aneurysms and implants shaped similar to the aneurysm 10 and implant 100 illustrated in FIGS. 3A through 3H, it can be more advantageous to shape the braid 110 in the first implanted shape as illustrated in FIG. 3F (rather than the second implanted shape illustrated in FIG. 3G) because the first implanted shape in this example implementation provides a larger surface area of the braid 110 in contact with the aneurysm wall 14.

FIGS. 4A and 4B are illustrations of the braid 110 of the example implant illustrated in FIGS. 2A through 2H and 3A through 3H showing the tubular braid 110 expanded within tubes to determine a range of aneurysm diameters and aneurysm heights that an implant 100 having the dimensions of the example implant 100 would be suitable for treating. FIG. 4A illustrates the braid 110 in a tube having a 5 mm diameter. The braid 110 is in the first implanted shape and has a height of about 8 mm. The braid 110 is therefore radially constrained from its predetermined shape by between about 1 mm and 1.5 mm in diameter, or between about 17% and 23%, and expanded vertically in height by between about 2.5 mm and 3 mm, or between about 45% and 60%.

FIG. 4B illustrates the braid 110 in a tube having a 4 mm diameter. The braid 110 is in the second implanted shape and has a height of about 6 mm. The braid is therefore radially constrained from its predetermined shape by between about 2 mm and 2.5 mm in diameter, or between about 33% and 38%, and expanded vertically between about 0.5 mm and 1 mm, or between about 10% and 20%.

Implants having a predetermined shape and dimensions as illustrated and described in relation to FIG. 2H can therefore be suitable for treating aneurysms having a diameter between and including about 4 mm and about 5 mm and a height between and including about 6 mm and about 8 mm. As illustrated in FIG. 3F, the implant can also be suitable for treating an aneurysm having a diameter of 6 mm and a height of 6 mm. As will be appreciated and understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art, the dimensions of the tubular braid in the predetermined shape can be tailored to treat aneurysms within a range of sizes not specifically outlined herein according to the principles described herein. It is contemplated that a collection of implants so shaped can be made available to physicians, and a physician can choose a suitable implant from the collection based on aneurysm height, diameter, neck diameter, and/or other anatomical features.

A collection of implants, each having a uniquely shaped tubular braid can be created to provide a catalogue of implants for treating aneurysms ranging in diameter and height. The catalogue can include implants suitable for treating aneurysms ranging from 3 mm to 15 mm in diameter and ranging from 3 mm to 15 mm in height, or in another example, ranging from 3 to 11 mm in diameter and 3 to 7 mm in height. As will be appreciated and understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art, some aneurysm dimensions are extremely rare, and the catalog need not include implants for treating aneurysms having a large height:diameter ratio or a large diameter:height ratio.

Each implant in the collection can be suitable for treating aneurysms with a sub range of diameters and a sub-range of heights. An example catalogue can include a listing of implants for treating aneurysms of one or more of, but not limited to, the following size sub ranges (diameter range in mm, height range in mm): (3-5, 3-5), (6-8, 4-5), and (9-11, 5-7).

In some examples, each size sub range can be treated by a single implant having a tubular braid uniquely sized and shaped to be suitable for treating aneurysms within that sub range. In some examples, the sub ranges in the catalogue can be represented by implants each having a tubular braid with a delivery length (length when the braid is collapsed for delivery through a microcatheter) that is about 10 mm, about 40 mm, and/or including a length in between.

As will be appreciated and understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art, aneurysm height and diameter are measured with some margin of error. To that end, the size sub range included in the catalogue for a given implant can represent a portion of aneurysm sizes that can be treated with the implant and the implant can treat aneurysms outside of the listed sub range. For instance, an implant listed for treating aneurysms having heights between height a and height b and diameter range between diameter x and diameter y can be suitable for treating aneurysms slightly taller than the maximum listed height b if the diameter of the aneurysm is near the lower limit of the range (about diameter x), the implant can be suitable for treating diameters slightly larger than diameter y if the height of the aneurysm is near the lower limit of the height range (about height a).

FIGS. 5A through 5D are illustrations of the example implant 100 as illustrated in FIGS. 1A through 1C implanted in either the first implanted shape or the second implanted shape in aneurysms ranging in size. FIG. 5A illustrates a large aneurysm 10 a, FIGS. 5B and 5C illustrate a medium aneurysm 10 c, and FIG. 5D illustrates a small aneurysm 10 b. The implant 100 is advantageously implanted in an aneurysm 10 a, 10 b, 10 c having a diameter about equal to or smaller than the diameter of the braid 110 in the predetermined shape so that the braid 110 provides an outward force F against the aneurysm wall 14 when implanted. The braid 110 can have inner layers that press against one or more outer layers, contributing to the force F.

As illustrated in FIG. 5A, the maximum size of an aneurysm 10 a that the implant 100 can be suitable for treating can be determined by the dimensions that the braid 110 can take in the first implanted shape. The pinched end 112 and detachment feature 150 can be positioned near a distal portion 15 a of the aneurysm wall 14 a as similarly illustrated in FIG. 1B.

As illustrated in FIG. 5B, the implant 100 can also be suitable for treating a medium sized aneurysm 10 c that is smaller than the aneurysm 10 a illustrated in FIG. 5A in the first implanted shape. To fit within the medium aneurysm 10 c in the first implanted shape, the pinched end 112 and detachment feature 150 can be positioned away from the distal portion 15 c of the aneurysm wall compared to the position of the pinched end 112 and detachment feature 150 in the large aneurysm 10 a. In the predetermined shape (see FIG. 1A), the middle segment 144 can include a bend 134 to stabilize the tubular braid 110 in the first implanted shape in the medium aneurysm 10 c as illustrated in FIG. 5B.

As illustrated in FIG. 5C, the implant 100 can also be suitable for treating the medium sized aneurysm 10 c in the second implanted shape. The middle segment 144 of the braid in the predetermined shape (see FIG. 1A) can be folded to form a middle layer 144 b and an inner layer 146 b similar to as described in relation to FIG. 1C. In some applications, either implanted shape could be effective for treating the aneurysm 10 c, and a physician can select a preferred shape during treatment. For instance, a physician can decide to use the first implanted shape (FIG. 5B) to elongate the implant so that the proximal fold 122 a can be placed proximally outside of the aneurysm neck, or the physician can decide to use the second implanted shape (FIG. 5C) to provide more layers of braid at the aneurysm neck to occlude the neck opening 16 c.

As illustrated in FIG. 5D, the minimum size of aneurysm 10 b that the implant 100 can be suitable for treating can be determined by the dimensions that the braid 110 can take in the second implanted shape. The open end 114 and/or the distal fold 124 b can be collapsed near a distal portion 15 b of the aneurysm wall in the second implanted shape.

FIG. 6A is an illustration of height HI and diameter D1, D2 measurements of an example implant 100 in a predetermined shape. In the predetermined shape, the braid 110 of the example implant 100 can be substantially radially symmetrical about vertical axis y, and therefore can have substantially circular concentric cross-sections each describable by its diameter. FIG. 6A highlights the height HI of the implant 100 in a predetermined shape measured between the inversions 122, 124, the outer diameter D1 of the outer segment 142, which corresponds to the diameter of the open end 114, and the outer diameter D2 of the middle segment D2. Although FIG. 6A illustrates only one example predetermined shape, it should be understood that the height and diameter of example implants described herein 100, 200, 300, 400 and portions thereof can be measured similarly to as illustrated in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6B is an illustration of height HA, sac diameter DA, and neck diameter DN measurements of an aneurysm 10. The location of the plane 18 defining a boundary between the aneurysm 10 and blood vessels is also illustrated.

FIG. 7A is an illustration of an example implant 200 having a tubular braid 210 in an alternative predetermined shape. FIG. 7B is an illustration of the example implant 200 in an aneurysm 10 with the tubular braid 210 in an implanted shape. The tubular braid 210 can have an open end 214 and a pinched end 212. The implant 200 can include a detachment feature 150 attached to the braid 210 at the pinched end 212. The braid 210 can be formed in the predetermined shape, collapsed for delivery through a microcatheter, attached to a delivery system at the detachment feature 150, and implanted in the implanted shape.

As illustrated in FIG. 7A, when in the predetermined shape, the tubular braid 210 can include two inversions 222, 224, dividing the braid 210 into three segments 242, 244, 248. In the predetermined shape, the braid 210 can have an outer segment 242 extending from the open end 214 of the braid 210 to one of the inversions 222, an inner segment 248 extending from the pinched end 212 of the braid 210 to the other of the inversions 224, and a middle segment 244 extending between the two inversions 222, 224. When in the predetermined shape, the tubular braid 210 can be substantially radially symmetrical about a central vertical axis y (see FIG. 6A). FIG. 7A illustrates a profile of each segment 242, 244, 248.

Comparing the predetermined shape of the braid 210 illustrated in FIG. 7A to that of the braid 110 illustrated in FIG. 1A, the outer segments 142, 242 and middle segments 144, 244 are respectively similar to each other, and the inner segment 248 of the braid 210 illustrated in FIG. 7A is longer than the inner segment 146 of the braid 110 illustrated in FIG. 1A. The pinched end 212 of the braid 210 in FIG. 7A is positioned near the inversion 222 adjacent the outer segment 242 rather than near the inversion 124 near the inner segment 146 as illustrated in FIG. 1A. The elongated inner segment 248 illustrated in FIG. 7A can be positioned to help the implant 200 resist compaction when implanted as illustrated in FIG. 7B.

The tubular braid 210 illustrated in FIG. 7A can be formed into the predetermined shape similar to as described in relation to FIG. 1A with some differences. The middle segment 244 need not have bends 132, 134 positioned facilitate the movement of the braid 210 into a second implanted shape. The inner segment 248 as illustrated in FIG. 7A can be made longer than that illustrated in FIG. 1A. The inner segment 248 can be shaped to have a length that is optimized to reduce the likelihood that the implant 200 can become compacted when implanted.

An implant 200 having a braid 210 having a predetermined shape as illustrated in FIG. 7A can have outer dimensions in the predetermined shape including an outer diameter and height similar to as illustrated and described in relation to FIG. 2H. The inner segment 248 of the braid 210 illustrated in FIG. 7A can have a height that is approximately equal to the height of the braid 210 in the predetermined shape.

The braid 210 can be elongated to a single layer tubular braid in a delivery shape that is sized to traverse a microcatheter. The length of the braid 210 in the delivery shape can be measured from the open end 214 to the pinched end 212. A braid 210 having a predetermined shape as illustrated in FIG. 7A and outer dimensions as illustrated and described in relation to FIG. 2H can have a length in the delivery shape that is longer compared to the length of the braid 110 illustrated in FIG. 2A. The length of the braid 210 illustrated in FIG. 7A when in the delivery shape can be longer than a braid 110 having a predetermined shape as illustrated in FIG. 1A by about the height of the braid 110, 210 in the predetermined shape. In other words, an implant 200 having a braid 210 with a predetermined shape as illustrated in FIG. 7A can have an outer diameter between about 6 mm and about 6.5 mm and a height between about 5 mm and 5.5 mm when in the predetermined shape and can be elongated to a single layer tube having a circumference collapsed to fit within a microcatheter and a length measuring between about 27 mm and 30 mm. The ratio of outermost diameter in the predetermined shape to length in the delivery shape can be between about 0.24 and about 0.2.

As illustrated in FIG. 7B, when in the implanted shape, the braid 210 can have an outer layer 242 a contacting the aneurysm's wall 14, a sack 244 a nested within the outer layer 242 a, a proximal inversion 222 a positioned at the aneurysm's neck 16, and a distal inversion 224 a positioned near a distal portion 15 of the aneurysm wall 14. The detachment feature 150 and pinched end 212 of the braid 210 can be positioned near the aneurysm neck 16, near the proximal inversion 222 a. The detachment feature 150 and pinched end 212 can be positioned to reduce the likelihood that the implant 200 becomes impacted.

FIG. 8A is an illustration of an example implant 300 having a tubular braid 310 in another alternative predetermined shape. FIG. 8B is an illustration of the example implant 300 when the tubular braid 310 in an implanted shape. The tubular braid 310 can have an open end 314 and a pinched end 312, and a detachment feature 150 can be attached to the braid 310 at the pinched end 312. The braid 310 can be formed in the predetermined shape, collapsed for delivery through a microcatheter, attached to a delivery system at the detachment feature 150, and implanted in the implanted shape.

As illustrated in FIG. 8A, when in the predetermined shape, the tubular braid 310 can include two inversions 322, 324, dividing the braid 310 into three segments 342, 344, 346. In the predetermined shape, the braid 310 can have an outer segment 342 extending from the open end 314 of the braid 310 to one of the inversions 322, an inner segment 346 extending from the pinched end 312 of the braid 310 to the other of the inversions 324, and a middle segment 344 extending between the two inversions 322, 324. When in the predetermined shape, the tubular braid 310 can be substantially radially symmetrical about a central vertical axis. FIG. 8A illustrates a profile of each segment 342, 344, 346.

Comparing the predetermined shape of the braid 310 illustrated in FIG. 8A to that of the braid 110 illustrated in FIG. 1A, the outer segments 142, 342 and inner segments 146, 346 are respectively similar to each other, and the middle segment 344 of the braid 310 illustrated in FIG. 8A has an undulating pattern rather than the “S” shape of the middle segment 144 of the braid 110 illustrated in FIG. 1A. The undulating middle segment 344 can be radially symmetrical to form a honeycomb shape. When implanted, the middle segment 344 in the undulating pattern can provide a force pattern pressing outwardly to anchor the implant 300 within an aneurysm that is different from a force pattern that could be provided by the middle segment 144 having the “S” shape illustrated in FIG. 1A. The pinched end 312 of the braid 310 in FIG. 8A can be positioned near the inversion 324 adjacent the inner segment 346 as illustrated. Alternatively, the inner segment 346 can be shaped to extend to the inversion 322 adjacent the outer segment 342 to provide a compaction resistant column.

The tubular braid 310 illustrated in FIG. 8A can be formed into the predetermined shape similar to as described in relation to FIG. 1A with some differences. The middle segment 344 can be formed to have an undulating pattern rather than an “S” shaped pattern. The middle segment 344 need not have bends positioned facilitate the movement of the braid 310 into a second implanted shape.

As illustrated in FIG. 8B, when in the implanted shape, the braid 310 can have an outer layer 342 a shaped to contact an aneurysm wall, compressed extensions of an undulating middle layer 344 a nested within the outer layer 342 a, a proximal inversion 322 a positioned to be placed an aneurysm neck, and a distal inversion 324 a positioned to be placed near a distal portion of the aneurysm wall. The detachment feature 150 and pinched end 312 of the braid 310 can be positioned within the aneurysm sac, either near the distal inversion 324 a as illustrated, near the proximal inversion 322 a, or at a position in between. The detachment feature 150 and pinched end 312 can be positioned to reduce the likelihood that the implant 300 becomes impacted.

FIG. 9A is an illustration of an example implant 400 having a tubular braid 410 in another alternative predetermined shape. FIG. 9B is an illustration of the example implant 400 illustrating the tubular braid 410 in an implanted shape. The tubular braid 410 can have an open end 414 and a pinched end 412. A detachment feature 150 can be attached to the braid 410 at the pinched end 412. The implant 400 can be formed in the predetermined shape, collapsed for delivery through a microcatheter, attached to a delivery system at the detachment feature 150, and implanted in the implanted shape.

As illustrated in FIG. 9A, when in the predetermined shape, the tubular braid 410 can include two inversions 422, 424, dividing the braid 410 into three segments 442, 444, 446. In the predetermined shape, the braid 410 can have an outer segment 442 extending from the open end 414 of the braid 410 to one of the inversions 422, an inner segment 446 extending from the pinched end 412 of the braid 410 to the other of the inversions 424, and a middle segment 444 extending between the two inversions 422, 424. When in the predetermined shape, the tubular braid 410 can be substantially radially symmetrical about a central vertical axis y (see FIG. 6A). FIG. 9A illustrates a profile of each segment 442, 444, 446.

Comparing the predetermined shape of the braid 410 illustrated in FIG. 9A to that of the braid 110 illustrated in FIG. 1A, the outer segments 142, 442 can be similar to each other, the middle segment 444 of the braid 410 illustrated in FIG. 9A can have a less pronounced “S” shape compared to the “S” shaped middle segment 144 illustrated in FIG. 1A, and the inner segment 446 can be conical or “V” shaped in profile with the pinch end 412 positioned near the inversion 422 adjacent the outer layer 442 rather than near the inversion 142 adjacent the inner layer 146 as illustrated in FIG. 1A. When implanted, the inner segment 446 can reshape to form a compaction resistant column.

The tubular braid 410 illustrated in FIG. 9A can be formed into the predetermined shape similar to as described in relation to FIG. 1A with some differences. The middle segment 444 illustrated in FIG. 9A can be formed to have a less pronounced “S” shape pattern compared to the “S” shaped pattern 144 illustrated in FIG. 1A. The middle segment 444 need not have bends positioned facilitate the movement of the braid 410 into a second implanted shape. The inner segment 446 can have a longer length as illustrated in FIG. 9A compared to the inner segment 146 illustrated in FIG. 1A. The inversion 424 adjacent the inner segment 446 can have a more acute curvature as illustrated in FIG. 9A compared to the corresponding inversion 124 illustrated in FIG. 1A.

As illustrated in FIG. 9B, when in the implanted shape, the braid 410 can have an outer layer 442 a shaped to contact an aneurysm wall, a tulip or heart shaped sack 444 a nested within the outer layer 442 a, a proximal inversion 422 a positioned to be placed at an aneurysm neck, a distal inversion 424 a positioned to be placed near a distal portion of the aneurysm wall, and a compaction resistant column 446 a extending within the sack 444 a. The detachment feature 150 and pinched end 412 of the braid 410 can be positioned within the sack 444 a near the proximal inversion 422 a. The detachment feature 150 and pinched end 412 can be positioned to reduce the likelihood that the implant 400 becomes impacted.

FIG. 10 is an illustration of an example implant 400 having a tubular braid 410 in a predetermined shape similar to as illustrated in FIG. 9A.

FIGS. 11A through 11E are illustrations of the example implant 400 illustrated in FIG. 10 showing the tubular braid 410 expanding to the implanted shape within a mock aneurysm 10 similar to as illustrated in FIG. 9B. As illustrated in FIG. 11A, the open end 414 can exit the microcatheter first and expand within the aneurysm 10. As illustrated in FIG. 11B, a distal portion of the braid 410 corresponding to the outer layer 442 in the predetermined shape can expand to appose the aneurysm wall 14 forming the outer later 442 a in the implanted shape. As illustrated in FIG. 11C, the braid 410 can begin to invert as the braid 410 is further pushed distally from the microcatheter 600. As illustrated in FIG. 11D, the proximal inversion 422 a can be placed at the aneurysm neck 16 as the tulip shaped sack 444 a expands within the outer layer 442 a. As illustrated in FIG. 11E, the braid 410 can be shaped in the implanted shape within the aneurysm 10 similar to as illustrated in FIG. 9B.

Any of the implants 100, 200, 300, 400 illustrated and described herein can include one or more additional braid layers that move substantially parallel to the tubular braid 110, 210, 310, 410. The multiple layers can be stacked coaxially with each other and heat treated as a single unit into a predetermined shape. In some applications, multiple layers may be able to provide additional coverage at the aneurysm neck and additional support and conformability within the aneurysm. Each one layer of the braid can be selected with different properties with different wire counts and thickness, braid angle and diameter and wire material to potentially increase metal coverage, reduce profile (microcatheter size), facilitate deployment and reduce neck inlet channel size while providing visibility under angiogram.

FIG. 12A is a cross sectional illustration of an implant 500 including two braid layers 510, 560 in a predetermined shape similar to that illustrated in FIG. 1A. The braid layers 510, 560 are constricted at a pinched end 512 at which a detachment feature 550 can be affixed to the braid layers 510, 560. As illustrated, in the predetermined shape, each of the braid layers 510, 560 can have a respective open end 514, 564, first segment 542, 582, first inversion 522, 572, second segment 544, 584, first bend 532, 592, second bend 534, 594, second inversion 524, 574, and third segment 546, 586 similar to as described in relation to the implant 100 illustrated in FIG. 1A. For each of the two braid layers 510, 560, the third segment extends from the pinched end 512 to the second inversion 524, 574, the second segment 544, 584, extends from the second inversion 524, 574 to the first inversion and at least partially surrounds the third segment 546, 586, and the first segment extends 542, 582 from the first inversion 522, 572 and at least partially surrounds the second segment 544, 584. As illustrated, for each of the two layers, the first segment only partially surrounds the second segment. About the first inversion of each of the two layers, layer B (560) is nested within layer A (510). About the second inversion of each of the two layers, layer A is nested within layer B.

FIG. 12B illustrates the braid layers 510, 560 positioned within a microcatheter 600. The braid layers 510, 560 can be positioned as coaxial tubes, as illustrated, with an inner layer 560 (layer B) and outer layer 510 (layer A). Benchtop testing has demonstrated that two layers of braid can come down to a smaller braid outer circumference (C) compared to a single layer braid with the same total wire count. Implants 100, 200, 300, 400 including a single layer tubular braid 110, 210, 310, 410 preferably have a wire count of 72 wires or 96 wires. With the same total wire count, an implant 500 having two layers 510, 560 can reduce the braid profile size when collapsing into the delivery system. It can reduce the track force and also the microcatheter size, which can facilitate navigability to more challenging and distal vasculature. With the same delivery tube size, the two layers 510, 560 of braid can increase the total wire count that can fit in that size. The added wire count can decrease the porosity at the neck of the aneurysm to promote flow diversion and thrombosis at the neck to promote healing and treat ruptured aneurysms more quickly. The added wires can also facilitate the deployment of an implant in larger aneurysms in different anatomic locations.

FIG. 12C illustrates the implant 500 implanted in a larger aneurysm 10 a in a first implanted shape similar to the implanted shape illustrated in FIG. 1B. The larger aneurysm 10 a defines a first substantially spherical cavity having an entrance that is the neck opening 16 a. As illustrated, in the first implanted shape, each of the two layers have an outer layer corresponding to the first segment of the predetermined shape and a proximal inversion corresponding to the first inversion of the predetermined shape. As illustrated, the outer layer 542 a of layer A 510 is positioned to contact a cavity wall 14 a of the larger aneurysm 10, the outer layer 582 a of layer B 560 apposes the outer layer 542 a of layer A 510, and the proximal inversion 522 a, 572 a of each of the two layers 510, 560 is positioned approximate the entrance 16 a to the larger aneurysm 10 a. As illustrated, each of the two layers 510, 560 of tubular braid comprises a sack 544 a, 584 a corresponding to the second segment 544, 584 of the predetermined shape. The sack 584 a of layer B 560 is positioned to appose a portion of the cavity wall of the larger aneurysm 10 a. The sack 544 a of layer A 510 is contained within the sack 584 a of layer B 560.

The two layers 510, 560 can press together to potentially perform like a stronger single layer braid which, in some applications can facilitate implant deployment in an angled aneurysm. When deployed in aneurysm, the outer segments of each of the two layers expand outwardly against the aneurysm wall to stabilize the braid against the aneurysm wall. Comparing an implant having a singular braid layer to an implant having two or more braid layers, the two implants having a similarly sized and shaped predetermined shape, the singular braid layer may require repositioning of the distal end of the catheter to facilitate inversion near the aneurysm neck while the implant having two or more braid layers may be inverted near the aneurysm neck by distal movement of the pinched end without requiring repositioning of the distal end of the catheter. The added wire counts can also increase the conformability and support at the aneurysm dome.

The two layers can also potentially increase chronic outward force to support the inner braid against the outer braid and resist compaction. As illustrated in FIG. 5A, a single layer braid 110 can provide a radial force F against the aneurysm wall 14 a. Similarly, two layers 510, 560 of braid as illustrated in FIG. 12C can provide a radial force F against the aneurysm wall 14 a that is greater than the single layer braid 110, all else being equal. In other words, given an implant 100 having a single layer braid 110 formed in a predetermined shape, having a total wire count, each wire having a wire circumference, and used to treat an aneurysm 10 a and also given an implant 500 having two layers 510, 560 of braid, a total wire count equal to that of the single layer braid 110, an average wire circumference about equal to the wires of the single layer braid 110, and used to treat the same aneurysm or aneurysm of substantially identical size 10 a, the two layers 510, 560 can provide a greater radial force F against the aneurysm wall 14 a compared to the single layer 110.

FIG. 12D illustrates the implant 500 implanted in a smaller aneurysm 10 b in a second implanted shape similar to the implanted shape illustrated in FIG. 1C. The smaller aneurysm 10 b defines a second substantially spherical cavity having an entrance that is the neck opening 16 b. As illustrated, in the second implanted shape, each of the two layers 510, 560 has an outer layer 542 b, 582 b corresponding to the first segment 542, 582 of the predetermined shape and a proximal inversion 522 b, 572 b corresponding to the first inversion 522, 572 of the predetermined shape. The outer layer 542 b of layer A 510 contacts the cavity wall 14 b of the smaller aneurysm 10 b. The outer layer 582 b of layer B 560 apposes the outer layer 542 b of layer A 510. The proximal inversion 522 b, 572 b of each of the two layers is placed approximate the entrance 16 b to the second substantially spherical cavity 10 b. Each of the two layers of tubular braid have a middle layer 544 b, 584 b and inner layer 546 b, 586 b corresponding to the second segment 544, 584 of the predetermined shape and a fold 524 b, 564 b separating the middle and inner layer. The inner layer 586 b of layer B 560 apposes the inner layer 546 b of layer A 510 which apposes the middle layer 544 b of layer A 510 which apposes the middle layer 584 b of layer B 560 which apposes the outer layer 582 b of layer B 560.

In the predetermined shape illustrated in FIG. 12A, each of the two layers 510, 560 of tubular braid comprises one or more bends 532, 534, 592, 594 positioned in the respective second segment 544, 584. In the second implanted shape illustrated in FIG. 12D, for each of the two layers 510, 560, the fold 524 b, 574 b separating the middle layer 544 b, 584 b and the inner layer 546 b, 586 b corresponds to one of the bends in the second segment of the predetermined shape.

In the first implanted shape illustrated in FIG. 12C, the pinched end 512 is suspended within the sacks 544 a, 584 a of layer A 510 and layer B 560. In the second implanted shape illustrated in FIG. 12D, the pinched end 512 is encircled by the proximal inversions 522 a, 572 a of layer A 510 and layer B 560.

In the first implanted shape illustrated in FIG. 12C, the two layers 510, 560 form an open end 514, 564 that encircles the sack 544 a, 584 a. In the second implanted shape illustrated in FIG. 12D, the open end 514, 564 encircles the fold 524 b, 574 b for each of the two layers 510, 560.

The implant 500 can be delivered and implanted following steps similar to those illustrated in FIGS. 3A through 3G. The implant 500 can be positioned within an aneurysm/spherical cavity solely via manipulation of the pinched end and positioning of the distal end of the catheter. A distal end of a catheter can be positioned near an aneurysm neck/cavity entrance. The pinched end 512 of the implant 500 can be pushed distally to push the implant 500 through at least a portion of the catheter 600. The outer layer 542 a, 542 b of layer A 510 can be apposed to the aneurysm wall 14. The outer layer 582 a, 582 b of layer B 560 can be apposed to the outer layer 542 a, 542 b of layer A 510. For at least the first implanted shape, a sack 584 a can be formed from layer B 560 that is at least partially surrounded by the outer layers 542 a, 582 a of layer A and layer B and a sack 544 a can be formed from layer A 510 that is at least partially surrounded by the outer layers of layer A and layer B and contained within the sack of layer B. The pinched end can be disengaged while two layers 510, 560 each retain their respective sacks 544 a, 584 a to leave the implant 500 implanted in the first implanted shape. For at least the second implanted shape, the second segment 544, 584 of each of the two layers 510, 560 in the second implanted shape can be folded to form the inner layer 546 b, 586 b and middle layer 544 b, 584 b separated by the fold 524 b, 574 b such that that the inner layer 586 b of layer B 560 apposes the inner layer 546 b of layer A 510 which apposes the middle layer 544 b of layer A 510 which apposes the middle 584 b layer of layer B 560 which apposes the outer layer 582 b of layer B 560.

By virtue of having two implanted shapes, similar to the implant 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1A through 1C, the implant 500 illustrated in FIGS. 12A through 12D can be suitable (via appropriate jurisdictional requirements for medical devices) for treating a first aneurysm having a first diameter measuring about 4 mm and a first height measuring about 6 mm, a second aneurysm comprising a second diameter measuring about 5 mm and a second height measuring about 8 mm, and a third aneurysm comprising a third diameter measuring about 6 mm and a third height measuring about 6 mm. Also, by virtue of having two implanted shapes, similar to the implant 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1A through 1C, the implant 500 illustrated in FIGS. 12A through 12D can be suitable for treating aneurysms within a continuum of aneurysm sizes, the continuum bounded by and including diameters between about 4 mm and about 5 mm and heights between about 6 mm and about 8 mm.

FIG. 13 illustrates a cross section of another implant 700 having two braid layers 710, 760 in a predetermined shape. The implant 700 is formed to the predetermined shape 700 similar to the implants 100, 500 illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 12A. The implant 700 illustrated in FIG. 13 differs primarily from the implant 500 illustrated in FIG. 12A in the area of the neck channel 526, 716.

Including two or more braid layers can potentially decrease the inner neck channel size for devices made of Nitinol-platinum wire woven braid. In other words, for a substantially identical process of achieving a predetermined shape, the neck channel opening 526, 726 of an implant 500, 700 having two layers 510, 710, 560, 760 can be smaller than the neck channel opening 126 of an implant 100 having a single braid layer 110. Similarly, when implanted, the neck channel opening 526 a illustrated in FIG. 12C can be smaller than the neck channel opening 126 a illustrated in FIG. 1B and further smaller for neck channel 726 in FIG. 13. A neck channel having a large opening can allow constant blood flow to reach the aneurysm neck and slow down healing. Platinum wires added to a braid generally make the braided portion of the respective implant visible under angiogram. However, because the platinum wire does not retain its shape as well as the nitinol wire after heat treatment, when deployed, a nitinol-platinum braid device is expected to have a bigger neck channel opening compared to an all nitinol braid (where the nitinol-platinum braid and the all nitinol braid have substantially identical predetermined shapes).

Depending on the specific needs and braid properties, in an implant including two or more braid layers, an all nitinol braid can be used in combination with a nitinol-platinum braid such that the nitinol-platinum braid facilitates visualization of the braided portion of the braid and the all nitinol braid facilitates movement of the braid layers to the predetermined shape. The all nitinol braid can either be used as the inside or outside braid to reduce the inner channel size when fabricated with nitinol-platinum braid. FIG. 12A illustrates an implant 500 having an all nitinol braid is positioned outside during delivery, layer A 510, and a nitinol-platinum braid positioned on the inside during delivery, layer B 560. When deployed, the nitinol braid 510 can create a small neck inner channel 526 a and can cover a larger channel of a nitinol-platinum braid 560. FIG. 13 illustrates an implant 700 having an all nitinol braid positioned as layer B 760 and a nitinol-platinum braid positioned as layer A 710. When deployed, the nitinol braid 760 can cinch down on the nitinol-platinum braid 710 and create a double layered neck channel 726 that is smaller than the opening of the neck channel 126 with a nitinol-platinum braid alone 110 as illustrated in FIG. 1A.

Referring to FIG. 13, the braid layers 710, 760 are constricted at a pinched end 712 at which a detachment feature 750 can be affixed to the braid layers 710, 760. As illustrated, in the predetermined shape, each of the braid layers 710, 760 can have a respective open end 714, 764, first segment 742, 782, first inversion 722, 772, second segment 744, 784, first bend 732, 792, second bend 734, 794, second inversion 724, 774, and third segment 746, 786 similar to as described in relation to the implant 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1 n relation to the implant 500 illustrated in FIG. 12A. For each of the two braid layers 710, 760, the third segment 746, 786 extends from the pinched end 712 to the second inversion 724, 774, the second segment 744, 784, extends from the second inversion 724, 774 to the first inversion and at least partially surrounds the third segment 746, 786, and the first segment 742, 782 extends from the first inversion 722, 772 and at least partially surrounds the second segment 744, 784. As illustrated, for each of the two layers 710, 760, the first segment 742, 782 only partially surrounds the respective second segment 744, 784. About the first inversion 722, 772 of each of the two layers, layer B 760 is nested within layer A 710. About the second inversion 724, 774 of each of the two layers, layer A 710 is nested within layer B 760.

The implant 700 can be delivered through a catheter 600 similar to as illustrated in FIG. 12B. The implant can be positioned through steps similar to as illustrated in FIGS. 3A through 3G and described in relation to FIGS. 12A through 12D. The implant 700 can be implanted in two distinct implanted shapes similar to as illustrated in FIGS. 12C and 12D.

FIG. 14 illustrates a cross section of another implant 800 having two braid layers 810, 860 in a predetermined shape. The implant 800 has a predetermined shape similar to that illustrated in FIG. 7A, a difference being the implant 800 illustrated in FIG. 14 has two tubular braid layers while the implant illustrated in FIG. 7A has one tubular braid. The implant 800 illustrated in FIG. 14 also has a predetermined shape similar to that illustrated in FIG. 12A, a difference being the implant 800 illustrated in FIG. 14 includes a dual layer compaction resistant post formed from inner segments 846, 886 of the braid 810.

The braid layers 810, 860 are constricted at a pinched end 812 at which a detachment feature 850 can be affixed to the braid layers 810, 860. As illustrated, in the predetermined shape, each of the braid layers 810, 860 can have a respective open end 814, 864, first segment 842, 882, first inversion 822, 872, second segment 844, 884, first bend 832, 892, second bend 834, 894, second inversion 824, 874, and third segment 846, 886 similar to as described in relation to the implant 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1 n relation to the implant 500 illustrated in FIG. 12A. For each of the two braid layers 810, 860, the third segment 846, 886 extends from the pinched end 812 to the second inversion 824, 874, the second segment 844, 884, extends from the second inversion 824, 874 to the first inversion and at least partially surrounds the third segment 846, 886, and the first segment 842, 882 extends from the first inversion 822, 872 and at least partially surrounds the second segment 844, 884. As illustrated, for each of the two layers 810, 860, the first segment 842, 882 only partially surrounds the respective second segment 844, 884. About the first inversion 822, 872 of each of the two layers, layer B 860 is nested within layer A 810. About the second inversion 824, 874 of each of the two layers, layer A 810 is nested within layer B 860.

The two layers 810, 860 of tubular braid can be stabilized in an implanted shape based on the predetermined shape illustrated in FIG. 14 when the braid layers 810, 860 are constrained by a substantially spherical cavity such as the interior of an aneurysm. In the implanted shape, layer A 810 has an outer layer corresponding to the first segment 842 that apposes the cavity wall of the substantially spherical cavity/aneurysm, layer B 760 has and outer layer corresponding to the first segment 882 that apposes to the outer layer of layer A 810, layer B 860 has an inner sack corresponding to the middle segment 884 that apposes to the outer layer of layer B 860, layer A 810 has an inner sack corresponding to the middle segment 844 positioned within the inner sack of layer B 860, for each of the two layers 810, 860, a proximal inversion corresponding to the first inversion 822, 872 is positioned approximate an entrance to the substantially spherical cavity/aneurysm neck, for each of the two layers 810, 860, a distal inversion corresponding to the second inversion 824, 874 is positioned approximate a distal portion of the cavity wall, and each of the two layers 810, 860 has a post corresponding to the third segment 846, 886, the post extending centrally within the inner sack and along a majority of a length between the distal inversion and the proximal inversion such that the post of layer B is positioned within the post of layer A.

The implant 800 can be delivered and implanted similar to as described in relation to the first implanted shape of the implant 500 illustrated in FIGS. 12A through 12C with a difference being that the pinched end 812 of the implant 800 illustrated in FIG. 15 can be positioned near the aneurysm neck, a tubular segment of layer A corresponding to the third segment 846 can be extended within the sack of layer A 810 and the sack of layer B 860 to terminate at the pinched end 812, and a tubular segment of layer B 860 corresponding to the third segment 886 can be extended within the tubular segment of layer A 810 to terminate at the pinched end 812.

Although not illustrated, the implants 300, 400 illustrated in FIGS. 8A-B, 9A-B, 10, and 11A-E can alternatively include two or more braid layers according to the principles illustrated and described in relation to FIGS. 12A-D, 13, and 14. Further, each implant 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 700, 800 can include a total of two, three, four, or five braid layers.

The tubular braid 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 560, 710, 760, 810, 860 of the example implants 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 700 can include memory shape material that can be heat set to a predetermined shape, can be deformed for delivery through a catheter, and can self-expand to an implanted shape that is based on the predetermined shape and confined by the anatomy of the aneurysm in which it is implanted. Tubular braid can further include platinum wire strands, markers, or other radiopaque features.

The example implants 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 700, 800 described herein can rely on a radial outward force to anchor the implant within the sac of an aneurysm. To this end, the braid(s) 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 560, 710, 760 can be shaped to a predetermined shape having a diameter (diameter of outermost braid, radially, for implants having multiple braid layers) that is greater than its height (between distal most layer and proximal most layer for implants having multiple braid layers) so that the braid is radially constricted when implanted in an aneurysm. The ratio of diameter to height of the braid(s) 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 560, 710, 760, 810, 860 in a respective predetermined shape can be within the range of 2:1 to 1:3 to treat aneurysms of many known sizes and shapes.

As used herein, the terms “about” or “approximately” for any numerical values or ranges indicate a suitable dimensional tolerance that allows the part or collection of components to function for its intended purpose as described herein. More specifically, “about” or “approximately” may refer to the range of values ±20% of the recited value, e.g. “about 90%” may refer to the range of values from 71% to 99%.

The descriptions contained herein are examples of embodiments of the invention and are not intended in any way to limit the scope of the invention. As described herein, the invention contemplates many variations and modifications of the implant, including alternative materials, alternative geometries, alternative detachment features, alternative delivery systems, alternative means for forming a braid into a predetermined shape, alternative treatment methods, alternative number of braid layers, etc. These modifications apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art to which this invention relates are intended to be within the scope of the claims which follow. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: positioning a distal end of a catheter approximate an aneurysm neck of an aneurysm; pushing a pinched end of an implant comprising two layers, a layer A and a layer B, of tubular braid distally through at least a portion of the catheter; apposing an outer layer of layer A to the aneurysm wall; apposing an outer layer of layer B to the outer layer of layer A; forming a sack of layer B at least partially surrounded by the outer layers of layer A and layer B; and forming a sack of layer A at least partially surrounded by the outer layers of layer A and layer B and contained within the sack of layer B, wherein the two layers comprise a predetermined shape in which each of the two layers respectively comprises a first and second inversion and a first, second, and third segment such that the third segment extends from the pinched end to the second inversion, the second segment extends from the second inversion to the first inversion and at least partially surrounds the third segment, and the first segment extends from the first inversion and at least partially surrounds the second segment.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: positioning the implant within the aneurysm solely via manipulation of the pinched end and via positioning of the distal end of the catheter.
 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: extending each of the two layers to respectively form a single layer tubular shape such that layer A is surrounded by layer B; and collapsing the two layers to comprise an outer circumference that is smaller than the outer circumference of a completely collapsed single layer tubular braid having a wire count equal to the sum of the wire count of the two layers and a wire circumference about equal to the average wire circumference of the wires in the two layers.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the two layers of tubular braid are stable in a first implanted shape based on the predetermined shape when constrained by a first substantially spherical cavity and the two layers of tubular braid are stable in a second implanted shape based on the predetermined shape when constrained by a second substantially spherical cavity; wherein, in each of the first implanted shape and the second implanted shape, each of the two layers comprises an outer layer corresponding to the first segment of the predetermined shape and a proximal inversion corresponding to the first inversion of the predetermined shape, wherein, in the first implanted shape, the outer layer of layer A is positioned to contact a cavity wall of the first substantially spherical cavity, the outer layer of layer B apposes the outer layer of layer A, and the proximal inversion of each of the two layers is positioned to be placed approximate an entrance to the first substantially spherical cavity; wherein, in the first implanted shape, each of the two layers of tubular braid comprises a sack corresponding to the second segment of the predetermined shape, and the sack of layer B is positioned to appose a portion of a cavity wall of the first substantially spherical cavity and the sack of layer A is contained within the sack of layer B; wherein, in the second implanted shape, the outer layer of layer A is positioned to contact a cavity wall of the second substantially spherical cavity, the outer layer of layer B is positioned to appose the outer layer of layer A, and the proximal inversion of each of the two layers is positioned to be placed approximate an entrance to the second substantially spherical cavity; and wherein, in the second implanted shape, each of the two layers of tubular braid comprises a middle layer and inner layer corresponding to the second segment of the predetermined shape and a fold separating the middle and inner layer such that the inner layer of layer B apposes the inner layer of layer A which apposes the middle layer of layer A which apposes the middle layer of layer B which apposes the outer layer of layer B.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein, in the predetermined shape, each of the two layers of tubular braid comprises a bend positioned in the second segment; and wherein, in the second implanted shape, for each of the two layers, the fold separating the middle layer and the inner layer corresponds to the bend in the second segment of the predetermined shape.
 6. The method of claim 4, wherein, in the first implanted shape, the pinched end is suspended within the sacks of layer A and layer B; and wherein, in the second implanted shape, the pinched end is encircled by the proximal inversions of layer A and layer B.
 7. The method of claim 4, wherein, in the first implanted shape, the two layers form an open end that encircles the sacks of layer A and layer B; and wherein, in the second implanted shape, the open end encircles the folds of layer A and layer B.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the two layers of tubular braid are stable in an implanted shape based on the predetermined shape when constrained by a substantially spherical cavity; and wherein, in the implanted shape, layer A comprises an outer layer apposed to a cavity wall of the substantially spherical cavity, layer B comprises and outer layer apposed to the outer layer of layer A, layer B comprises an inner sack apposed to the outer layer of layer B, layer A comprises an inner sack positioned within the inner sack of layer B, for each of the two layers, a proximal inversion corresponding to the first inversion is positioned approximate an entrance to the substantially spherical cavity, for each of the two layers, a distal inversion corresponding to the second inversion is positioned approximate a distal portion of the cavity wall, and each of the two layers comprises a post corresponding to the third segment, the posts extending centrally within the inner sack and along a majority of a length between the distal inversion and the proximal inversion, the post of layer B positioned within the post of layer A.
 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising: pressing the outer layer A to the aneurysm wall with a radial force that is greater than a radial force applied by a single layer braid to an aneurysm wall of a second aneurysm having a substantially identical size to the aneurysm, the two layers having a total wire count that is about equal to the wire count of the single layer braid, an average wire circumference about equal to the average wire circumference of the single layer braid, and a predetermined shape formed by a substantially identical process as the single layer braid.
 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising: implanting the implant such that, compared to a single layer braid implanted in a second aneurysm having a substantially identical size, across the aneurysm neck the two layers of braid comprise one or more of: a smaller inlet channel, a decreased porosity, and an increased metal coverage, the two layers having a total wire count that is about equal to the wire count of the single layer braid, an average wire circumference about equal to the average wire circumference of the single layer braid, and a predetermined shape formed by a substantially identical process as the single layer braid.
 11. The method of claim 1, further comprising: determining the implant is suitable for treating a first aneurysm comprising a first diameter measuring about 4 mm and a first height measuring about 6 mm, a second aneurysm comprising a second diameter measuring about 5 mm and a second height measuring about 8 mm, and a third aneurysm comprising a third diameter measuring about 6 mm and a third height measuring about 6 mm.
 12. The method of claim 1, further comprising: determining the implant is suitable for treating a continuum of aneurysm sizes, the continuum bounded by and including diameters between about 4 mm and about 5 mm and heights between about 6 mm and about 8 mm.
 13. A method of forming an implant, the method comprising: shaping two layers of tubular braid, a layer A and a layer B, constricted at a pinched end to a predetermined shape as follows: inverting each of the two layers of tubular braid to form a distal inversion separating an inner segment and a middle segment for each of the two layers, the inner segment of each of the two layers extending from the respective distal inversion to the pinched end and at least partially surrounded by the middle segment; and inverting each of the two layers of tubular braid to form a respective proximal inversion separating the middle segment from an outer segment for each of the two layers, the middle segment extending from the distal inversion to the proximal inversion and at least partially surrounded by the outer segment.
 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: determining the implant is suitable for treating a first aneurysm comprising a first diameter measuring about 4 mm and a first height measuring about 6 mm, a second aneurysm comprising a second diameter measuring about 5 mm and a second height measuring about 8 mm, and a third aneurysm comprising a third diameter measuring about 6 mm and a third height measuring about 6 mm.
 15. The method of claim 13, further comprising: determining the implant is suitable for treating a continuum of aneurysm sizes, the continuum bounded by and including diameters between about 4 mm and about 5 mm and heights between about 6 mm and about 8 mm.
 16. The method of claim 13, wherein the two layers of tubular braid are stable in a first implanted shape based on the predetermined shape when constrained by a first substantially spherical cavity and the two layers of tubular braid are stable in a second implanted shape based on the predetermined shape when constrained by a second substantially spherical cavity; wherein, in each of the first implanted shape and the second implanted shape, each of the two layers comprises an outer layer corresponding to the first segment of the predetermined shape and a proximal inversion corresponding to the first inversion of the predetermined shape, wherein, in the first implanted shape, the outer layer of layer A is positioned to contact a cavity wall of the first substantially spherical cavity, the outer layer of layer B apposes the outer layer of layer A, and the proximal inversion of each of the two layers is positioned to be placed approximate an entrance to the first substantially spherical cavity; wherein, in the first implanted shape, each of the two layers of tubular braid comprises a sack corresponding to the second segment of the predetermined shape, and the sack of layer B is positioned to appose a portion of a cavity wall of the first substantially spherical cavity and the sack of layer A is contained within the sack of layer B; wherein, in the second implanted shape, the outer layer of layer A is positioned to contact a cavity wall of the second substantially spherical cavity, the outer layer of layer B is positioned to appose the outer layer of layer A, and the proximal inversion of each of the two layers is positioned to be placed approximate an entrance to the second substantially spherical cavity; and wherein, in the second implanted shape, each of the two layers of tubular braid comprises a middle layer and inner layer corresponding to the second segment of the predetermined shape and a fold separating the middle and inner layer such that the inner layer of layer B apposes the inner layer of layer A which apposes the middle layer of layer A which apposes the middle layer of layer B which apposes the outer layer of layer B.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein, in the predetermined shape, each of the two layers of tubular braid comprises a bend positioned in the second segment; and wherein, in the second implanted shape, for each of the two layers, the fold separating the middle layer and the inner layer corresponds to the bend in the second segment of the predetermined shape.
 18. The method of claim 16, wherein, in the first implanted shape, the pinched end is suspended within the sacks of layer A and layer B; and wherein, in the second implanted shape, the pinched end is encircled by the proximal inversions of layer A and layer B.
 19. The method of claim 16, wherein, in the first implanted shape, the two layers form an open end that encircles the sacks of layer A and layer B; and wherein, in the second implanted shape, the open end encircles the folds of layer A and layer B.
 20. The method of claim 13, wherein the two layers of tubular braid are stable in an implanted shape based on the predetermined shape when constrained by a substantially spherical cavity; and wherein, in the implanted shape, layer A comprises an outer layer apposed to a cavity wall of the substantially spherical cavity, layer B comprises and outer layer apposed to the outer layer of layer A, layer B comprises an inner sack apposed to the outer layer of layer B, layer A comprises an inner sack positioned within the inner sack of layer B, for each of the two layers, a proximal inversion corresponding to the first inversion is positioned approximate an entrance to the substantially spherical cavity, for each of the two layers, a distal inversion corresponding to the second inversion is positioned approximate a distal portion of the cavity wall, and each of the two layers comprises a post corresponding to the third segment, the posts extending centrally within the inner sack and along a majority of a length between the distal inversion and the proximal inversion, the post of layer B positioned within the post of layer A. 